No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe
Introduction
These no-bake peanut butter protein bars are a quick and delicious way to fuel your day. Packed with protein and natural sweetness, they make a perfect snack for busy mornings or post-workout recovery.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy no-stir peanut butter
- ¾ cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, protein powder, honey (or maple syrup), and rolled oats. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is thick but sticks together easily.
- Step 2: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the peanut butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish.
- Step 3: Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second increments, stirring after each until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set and the bars to firm up.
- Step 5: Once set, slice the bars into 12-16 pieces. Serve immediately or store as directed below.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or seeds to the peanut butter mixture before pressing into the pan.
- Use flavored protein powders like chocolate or vanilla to change the taste profile.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before chilling for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Swap rolled oats for gluten-free oats if needed to make the bars gluten-free.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to one month; thaw briefly before eating. Reheating is not necessary, as these bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used, but the texture will be slightly more textured and less smooth.
What type of protein powder works best?
Both vanilla and chocolate protein powders work well. Choose your favorite based on flavor preference and dietary needs.
PrintNo-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars Recipe
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars are a quick and easy homemade snack packed with protein and natural sweetness. Combining creamy peanut butter, protein powder, oats, and a layer of rich dark chocolate, these bars are perfect for a nutritious energy boost without any baking required. Ideal for meal prep, they chill in the fridge and deliver a satisfyingly chewy and chocolatey treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy no-stir peanut butter
- ¾ cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 cup rolled oats
Topping
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Butter Base: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, honey or maple syrup, and rolled oats. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is thick and well combined, allowing it to hold together easily.
- Press into the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Evenly press the peanut butter mixture into the bottom of the dish to form a uniform layer.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dish for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set and the bars to firm up properly.
- Slice & Serve: Once the chocolate layer is fully set, slice the mixture into 12 to 16 bars. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for extended storage.
Notes
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey to make the recipe vegan.
- Use vanilla or chocolate protein powder depending on your flavor preference.
- For added texture, sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate before chilling.
- Ensure the peanut butter is no-stir to avoid separation and make mixing easier.
- Store bars in the fridge to maintain firmness and freshness.
Keywords: no bake protein bars, peanut butter bars, healthy snack, protein snack, no bake sweets, homemade energy bars
